Secondly, you cant use spackle as a sealant. Having both joint compound and spackle in your toolbox is a great idea, as you never know which one you will need. House Grail is reader-supported. Spackle dries quicker than joint compound in less than 30 minutes. A quality paper tape will make this projess easier but still takes time. In the end, you should choose spackle for your average home repair. Joint compound is actually a versatile material. However, if you want high-quality results, you need to choose the perfect option for your project in particular. It could be useful for correcting small cracks and imperfections in the wall. It also is easy to use and is highly versatile and flexible.if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'diyhomeownerhero_com-medrectangle-4','ezslot_0',129,'0','0'])};if(typeof __ez_fad_position!='undefined'){__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-diyhomeownerhero_com-medrectangle-4-0')};if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'diyhomeownerhero_com-medrectangle-4','ezslot_1',129,'0','1'])};if(typeof __ez_fad_position!='undefined'){__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-diyhomeownerhero_com-medrectangle-4-0_1')};.medrectangle-4-multi-129{border:none!important;display:block!important;float:none;line-height:0;margin-bottom:15px!important;margin-left:0!important;margin-right:0!important;margin-top:15px!important;max-width:100%!important;min-height:250px;min-width:250px;padding:0;text-align:center!important}. Spackle is the more familiar of the two compounds. Spackle is also much more user-friendly than joint compound.
It is used for drywalling projects and large-scale work. The wrong tool could mean a job to do over or scrap altogether. When using that reinforcing mesh, the key is to make it as flat and level as possible. Both spackle and joint compound shrink when they dry, but the amount greatly differs. Theyre both examples of a genericized trademark when we use a brand name to describe all brands of the same product. You want to use spackle for smaller jobs, this includes minor blemishes, nail holes, etc. Instead of scooping and scraping, you can squeeze the spackle into the hole you want to fill. Comprised of gypsum powder and binders, it is like toothpaste and sold in a pre-mixed tub container. Crash Proof Retirement: Thrive in any market 2022. However, if youre a serious DIYer who wants to be prepared for everything, the joint compound is something nice to have around. Their products just work. Though there are a number of uses of joint compound, they are considered the best option in hanging drywall. Driveway sinking?AUTO/RV - Maintenance & Optimization.LIFE - Working from home tips. It can also be bought in a pre-mixed tub. It is user-friendly and comes in a ready-to-use formulation. It is a bit thicker and is more designed for spot-treatments. How to Adjust Door Closer: Why Is My Door Slamming? While this could be an advantage, quite often joint compound is not kept on hand in home where spackle is usually in every shed or garage. Youre trying to fix the dent but dont have any spackle on hand. TheSawGuy.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.
There is also an all-purpose spackle that is made using acrylic. It is not as spreadable as the joint component. Some joint compounds come as a powder, and you can add water and mix it yourself. Spackle is no different. But mixed with adhesives, it can harden enough to be sanded down. Like drywall compound, it helps prepare a smooth surface, so paint goes on looking good. You put the tape on the seams where two pieces of drywall meet. The first difference is whats in them. Hosted By: WolfPack Advising. This will keep it from falling apart, Let it dry completely and then sand it after following the manufacturers directions. Perlite is a volcanic glass. This repair kit comes with a 4-ounce tube of spackle and a wood-handled metal putty knife. Can be a lightweight formula and fix large cracks, Takes a Long Time to dry on the wall surface. Additionally, it is used to cover the seams of two pieces of drywall. With joint compound, you can do the mixing, creating a consistency that is similar to cake frosting. Joint compound tends to be confused with spackle by the amateur DIYer.
You can use joint compound on ceilings as long as you dont mix it too thin. If you have a massive hole in your wall, then it is wiser to go with joint compound. Soto Spackle + Paint Repair Nail Hole Filler, Putty, Spackle, and Drywall Mud (Joint Compound) (https://youtu.be/0qf91KsR_TQ), Hot Water Heater Not Working? In general, a powdered product presents more of a health concern than a paste. We all know that gypsum is the most important and primary material in drywall or gypsum boards. Spackle is used in a small area compared to a large area for joint compound, thus costing more. You can also use it to create textures on a wall. Anytime that you rub into those small damage issues, just break out the spackle, sand, and paint. It dries quickly! A little joint spackle can go a long way. If youre redoing a wall or a room, you may need joint compound. However, you also use less of it, so the cost usually balances out. Whenever you make joint compound yourself, it is imperative that you only make as much as you need. Spackle is also derived from gypsum and is made very similar to a joint compound. Spackle is used for small home repairs. Its also used to cover any nail holes or blemishes, so theres a smooth surface ready for the first coat of paint or primer. Calling a professional is a great idea so that you can have assistance. However, youre going to use quite a bit of it at a time so that the cost can add up after extensive use. It basically is a paste-like product and it has quite a few things common with joint compounds. Either way, youll still need to do some preparation before using it. However, some larger projects might require joint compound. (Guide with, link to Crash Proof Retirement: Thrive in any market 2022. link to BEST RETIREMENT COMMUNITIES IN ARIZONA:SEE THE 8 CITIES THAT MADE THECUT 2022! It is good to know that both spackle and joint compound can be used in small patchwork.
It is usually much cheaper than spackle. They can cause issues in their dry forms if inhaled. Joint compound is water, limestone, perlite, polymers, and a few additives. Modern-day homes are constructed with the help of walls that are built using a wall-board. Your retirement is fast approaching, and youre ready to make a move. 
Like spackle, there are definitely benefits and downsides to using joint compound. Both of these materials do similar things, but they are required in different jobs and situations. It is a means to protect your retirement fund from market crashes. Having said so, when you are in a pinch situation, joint compound could be one of the best options available. You can find it in white, beige, and four colors in between. Heres What You Need to Know, How to Fix a Pocket Door Diagnose and Repair Pocket Door Issues, How To Fix A Ceiling Fan Troubleshoot 5 Common Problems, Best Random Orbital Sander Reviews And Comparisons. Say youre moving a piece of furniture and accidentally put a dent in your living room wall. Run it in a downward motion and cover the hole. You can spread it over a larger area, but itll take a bit more elbow grease and time. Best of all, it can handle larger projects and even sealing. How do youwantto live during yourretirement years? Using tape at the seams between the boards, they then cover the tape using the joint compound. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'diyhomeownerhero_com-large-leaderboard-2','ezslot_6',133,'0','0'])};if(typeof __ez_fad_position!='undefined'){__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-diyhomeownerhero_com-large-leaderboard-2-0')}; Whenever there is a need for small types of work spackling could be a sensible option. The average homeowner is going to be doing small wall repairs, which is exactly what spackle is used for. It has a vinyl binding agent that is great for smaller holes. For one, it is a small-use application. 1. You may see it in its traditional white color, though there are brands that spread on pink before drying to the familiar white. Hence, we will try and understand the difference between joint compound vs. spackling and also look at other important points. No, you cant! Taping is another type of joint compound that is used in the taping stage and finishing process with skim coating. But how do you know when to use joint compound vs. spackle? Spackle tends to dry a bit quicker and has less shrinking than a joint compound would.
Best Paint Sprayers for the Money Top Picks & Reviews, Dap 10102 Wallboard Joint Compound, 12-Pound. For joint compound, it is not uncommon to mix up a batch yourself. Productivity hacks. The truth is, despite appearances, there are significant differences between these two. There are a lot of things to like about spackle. All the drywall is securely in place, and its time to fill the gaps in the joints. Joint compound and spackle look a lot alike and many people think they work the same. Spackle is made of binders and gypsum powder, creating a gummy, gooey consistency. You can use it for larger projects, but itll take longer, and youll end up spending more money. Spackles with thinner consistency could be suitable for small repair jobs whereas thicker grains could be the choice for heavy-load patchwork. Spackle that comes in tubes is usually less messy to use than the kind in the tub. trim and fastener works and corner beads. For smaller projects, go with spackle. Now, lets look at what sets joint compound and spackle apart from each other. While both joint compounding and spackling have their own features, benefits and specialties, you must be aware of the same. So youre finishing your basement and putting up sheets of drywall. If you use the setting type of joint compound, dont mix a lot at once. You may also need a wet rag and sandpaper. They dont waste time on pretty packaging or kitschy gimmicks. These are squares with a metal mesh behind them, typically aluminum, that goes over the hole. It can be done in a few hours at the most. However, we also need to understand that it may not be the best material whenever there is a need to fill up larger holes. Pete has been working in the trades since high school, where he first developed a passion for woodworking. That all-purpose mixture is great for holes that range from -inch to -inch in diameter. Copyright 2022 House Grail. They create the bumps and ridges they want and then paint a picture on top of it. You will need to apply several coats of joint compound for a smooth finish. The second is that, when not in use, the product should be properly covered. If youre sitting in a room right now, chances are theres joint compound under the paint right next to you. Because its so smooth, you dont even have to sand it down before youre done. There are two commonly used materials to get the job done: joint compound and spackle. Joint Compound easier to sand down, more dense and durable, and doesnt dry out as fast as spackle. POPCORN WALLS: HOW TO REMOVE THEM (QUICK GUIDE), Genius Home Repairs YOU MUST Know to save $$$ (2021, Effective Ways to Seal your House from Mice, Locate Studs in walls (16" or 24" apart) - Find with tools, 5 Best Paints for Garage Walls: Amazing Paints to Give Your, How to Make Use of Space Under the Stairs?
The mesh will allow the compound to adhere to it. Plus, it dries too quickly. A spatula or palette knife is necessary for smoothing the surface after you apply spackle. Well, it will depend on the size of the project. Spackle is suitable for most small repairs. Joint compound is also known as mud because its about the same consistency. All rights reserved. Lets break down the pros and cons of using spackle. Joint compounds are best suitable for larger projects. Youre much more likely to need spackle than joint compound, which should be reason enough to stock up on it. People use it to patch nail holes in apartments to avoid losing their security deposit. When it is used for new walls, it could remove all blemishes from the surface of the drywall. You can use spackle on drywall, wood, and plaster. Water and mold issues? Established in 1914 in Akron. You should not breathe them in when possible. If you have a building repair or a wall project in hand, then it is quite likely that you will find this article interesting and relevant. Then, you cover it with joint compound. Spackle is a bit more expensive than joint compound in general.
While this could be an advantage, quite often joint compound is not kept on hand in home and therefore may not be available for ready usage. When you can, buy the bucket size if you have a larger area to cover. If youre considering which one to stock up on, spackle is likely going to be used more often. Lets take a look at what these products are, the similarities and the dry time, shrinkage, and size of the project. Spackle is used to fill in dings and dents like holes in the wall, nail holes, or where you tried to hang a ceiling fan and put it in the wrong place. Wipe excess off the knife. Spackle is useful for repairs. The simple fact of the matter is that the two are not interchangeable. Spackle generally comes in pre-mixed tubs of different sizes. This requires taping compound of two dry coats spread on the wall. The first is to work quickly. Spackle is mostly gypsum. For one, it is quite a bit heavier than spackle.
Also known as drywall mud (or simply mud by professionals), it is similarly comprised of gypsum dust. If you are thinking of using joint compound for your next project, here is what you should consider. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. If you have a dent, ding, nail hole, or any other small imperfection in your walls, spackle will take care of the job in short order. However, if you can only purchase one for whatever reason, we recommend stocking up on spackle at the very least. Spackle and joint compound are very similar. Most homeowners will need spackle for their average repairs. Joint compound is for large projects. Can you take out your tub of spackle and use it to do the job? The weight difference may not sound like much but can make a serious difference in the application process. Smooth the surface, and youre good to go. If you have sinus and respiratory conditions, you should be extra careful. The one thing to keep in mind if you are using joint compound for small repairs is that it can shrink. The best tool for this is a drill with a paddle attachment. It also is used for doing some minor repair works. It saves on water and in fact water is not required. It will give you time to work on the mud and you will not be stressed with the worry that the whole thing will become dry. To help you choose the best option for your current project, we wrote this complete guide. Most homeowners probably dont need this if they want to be equipped for minor repairs. However, most are sold premixed. It also comes in very handy for smooth and professional finish work of drywall seams. The Saw Guy Saw Reviews and DIY Projects, Durable, so you dont have to stop in the middle of a job to buy a new one, Different available colors so you may not need to paint over it to match your wall, Non-toxic, so you dont have to worry about kids or pets getting ahold of it, Only takes a few minutes to dry, and you can paint over it or touch it soon after you use it, Tube only comes in a 4-ounce size, which may not be enough for large jobs, Colors dont look the same on different devices so you cant always tell if its going to match, Premixed, making it less work and less messy than the dry compounds, Nice and thick composition, although you can make it thinner, Bucket has a handle for easy carrying (Youd think this would be a standard feature, but a lot of brands dont come with a handle), One thin coat is opaque, and you dont much compound if youre using it to cover marks or printing on the drywall, Doesnt sand down as smoothly as other options, meaning it could require a few passes with different paper grades, Compound needs around 24 hours to dry completely, so its not ideal if youre in a rush. Also, you need to make sure those seams are taped properly. Using spackle is something the average homeowner can do, but dont be afraid to ask for help. Both have their own features, uniqueness and versatilities and users should choose the one that suits their specific needs and requirements. Though many might be tempted to use the same joint compound across the board, it would be better to use different types of joint compound based on the project you are working on. Anything bigger than that and you may want to opt for a joint compound with some reinforcing mesh. When you mix joint compound, you know you have the right consistency if its spreadable like cream cheese. Bubbling leads to uneven application of the joint compound. When you skew away from seams and drywall work, things can be a bit questionable when it comes to using joint compound. Joint compound contains limestone and perlite. Lightweight compounds are also used regularly. The most notable pro of spackle is that it is perfect for small repair jobs. You can also use a mud masher, a tool that looks like a potato masher. What is a Hammer Drill and Which One is Best? The same goes for the dry compound. An exclusive Crash Proof Retirement System provides you an option BEST RETIREMENT COMMUNITIES IN ARIZONA:SEE THE 8 CITIES THAT MADE THECUT 2022! Wall repair can be a simple endeavor or it can be quite complicated. I spent years in the construction industry refining my knowledge of various trades and even spent a few years working at a major hardware store. We can help.Long time homeowners, DIYers, husband & wife team who shows you the best tips and hacks. It also comes in handy for gypsum panel joint finishing works. That means potentially needing multiple coats to do the job that spackle would do. If done right, the seams should be barely visible, if at all. Weve covered how the two are similar texture, color, application. It functions as a cosmetic tool, not a structural one. The downsides are really very small and you kind of know about them going into picking out spackle for the job anyways.
When the gypsum boards are hung on the frame of the inside of the home, the boards are taped between the seams and the tape is covered with joint compound to hold it together. We will talk about a few of the most commonly used joint compounds. Whether youre building or repairing walls, some sort of joint compound or spackle is essential.
You can use it to fill nail holes, dents, and scratches in walls like this. Over the years, he has developed a keen interest in a wide variety of DIY projects around the home. We also need to understand that the base product for spackle is gypsum which also is the case for joint compounds. Its part of the process for building interior walls. DIY guru, dad, husband, blogger. Knowing what it can offer (and what it cant do) are important steps before you head to the home improvement store.
Spackle is the one that most homeowners will use for the DIY projects around the house. Can You Substitute Joint Compound for Spackle? It can be used for smaller tasks, of course. Lets take a closer look at the applications for both. Even with the premixed mud, you need to have a mixer of some kind so you can add water. Effective Grout Cleaning NOW: Ultimate Problem-solving Guide 2021, How to clean a dishwasher: Using GREEN cleaners you already have. Fascinated by all sort of tools, Pete loves reading and writing about all the latest gadgets and accessories that hit the market. Joint compound is considered to be more versatile and can be used for a variety of purposes. Yes, they are both used in the home for wall repair, fixing imperfections, or construction. You might or might not paint over it. Since spackle is sold in small quantities, manufacturers like to pair it with a simple tool that helps the job go more smoothly. If you have any DIY painting work, spackling could be a good option. Full affiliate disclaimer here, [contact-form][contact-field label=Name type=name required=1][contact-field label=Email type=email required=1][contact-field label=Website type=url][contact-field label=Message type=textarea][/contact-form]. When I'm not creating life hacks I'm teaching my kids how to fix stuff after their dad breaks it. There are lightweight formulas for spackle, too. Joint compound is simply gypsum dust mixed with water. Its almost always too thick to use right out of the package. Things like dents and dings, small nail or screw holes, or even combined with drywall patches that are 2 x 2 or greater. Moreover, joint compound can take as long as 24 hours to fully dry, dragging out a small repair job for far longer. In a pinch, either will work just fine for smaller patchwork. Each one is unique and can be used keeping in mind the requirements and the surfaces on which they are being used. We now have a reasonably good idea about joint compound. In it, well discuss everything you need to know about both options. drywall must be replaced due to smoke damage, How To Remove Mold From Rubber Seal On Washing Machine, Both can dry out quickly in the air so only mix up what you are using at that moment. Have questions about either product or need assistance with a project in the home using joint compound or spackle? You need time to work with the joint compound and that would not be possible with the spackle. There are joint compounds that come in a lightweight formula. We are sure that the above would have given our readers a reasonably clear understanding about joint compound and spackling. What you should know about crash-proof retirement? Copyright 2019 by The Saw Guy Saw Reviews and DIY Projects. Let it dry according to directions on the container and then sand it down after drying. They are light in weight and density. Using the joint compound can also be a little more tedious and help may be needed.
Spackle is more used for smaller applications, like fixing holes and those sorts of things. For larger jobs it is a better choice, the best way. Plaster is a technology that has perhaps outlived its utility and is not used very frequently in homes. Spackle comes in small tubes. Because of this, most homeowners should have some on hand for those quick and easy repair jobs. Youll need a lot of it to cover drywall joints. It, too, comes in several varieties. When undertaking such projects and repair you certain have some joint compounding, sealing and other such requirements. Despite the differences between the two, it is possible for both spackle and joint compound to dry out quicky.
Wear a mask when working with either material as the dust can cause issues. Is your house too hot? Most homeowners are going to need spackle for the majority of their projects. The lightweight compounds are ideal for the smaller patchwork jobs because they dry far quicker than the typical joint compound. Locate Studs in walls (16 or 24 apart) Find with tools you own NOW! May not be suitable for small works and projects. So whats the difference between joint compound vs. spackle? Joint compounds are available in ready-to-use mixes. Use joint compound for finishing drywall. You also might require some spackling work. Lightweight Made from vinyl for small holes like nails and pins, 2. This is because joint compounds have a tendency to shrink and it also retracts quite a bit.
It may crack, shrink, or crumble if applied in large patches. If youre not familiar with drywall, check out this article. Use a pre-made spackle and apply at a 45-degree angle with a putty knife. On its own, its not an especially strong mineral. We will try and have a look at spackling in some detail. Joint Compound vs. Spackle, Which One Should You Use? Instead, it is created so you can splat a whole bunch of it on a surface at once. Not only that, it is way more cost-effective compared to buying a joint compound that basically equates to overkill. Just about anyone can go to the store, grab a pre-mixed tub, and put it to good use. Learn more. Here are two great examples from each category so you can make an informed choice when it comes time for some DIY home repair. This article may contain affiliate links, How To Graft a Fruit Tree [Your Garden Will Thank You], How to Waterproof Plywood [4 Best Methods], A Guide to Wood Finishes That Are Food Safe. It comes in various consistencies and each one of them cater to different situations. Even if you dont currently have a project in need of spackle or joint compound, you may want to consider stocking up on them just in case. If there is anyone who can help you make a well-informed, unbiased, budget-conscious decision, its me and my team. It could be used for sealing joints, for prepping drywall before the first coat of paint and so on. When you buy joint compound, you purchase several pounds at once. When it sits unevenly, there is the chance of bubbling.
Like spackle, there are pre-mixed tubs available for greater convenience. The simplest explanation is that spackle is used for smaller applications whereas joint compound is used in greater volume. Now that weve nailed down the difference between joint compound and spackle, lets shop around and see some buying options. Expect to find premixed joint compound sold in large quantities, several pounds to a package. Home / Blog / Repair & Maintenance / Joint Compound vs. Spackle, Which One Should You Use? Update Privacy Preferences When it is in this condition, the users find it easier to lather on their work materials. To recap what weve covered in our comparison, heres a handy cheat sheet: A helpful way to remember what each is useful for is to compare the sizes they come in. Then, use the tool to scrape the excess away. Joint compound gets its strength from limestone and expanded perlite. It leaves behind a lasting solution for small problems and issues pertaining to walls, joints and other such places. Joint compound is relatively inexpensive. Having joint compound saves a ton of time and effort along the way and is quite easy to apply. You only need a little bit to patch gouges, holes, and cracks. While joint compound can be used for small patchwork operations, spackle can not be applied in larger drywall operations. They both go on walls. You might be wondering when you will be working with drywall, but unfortunately, if there was a fire in the home, the drywall must be replaced due to smoke damage and you will be using joint compound to hold the boards together.
Joint compound is typically used during drywall installation. When working with either product, there are two rules of thumb. Squeaky hardwood floors: 5 Steps Stop Squeaks From Below Now! The Best Home & Commercial Property Inspection Company in New Hampshire, Massachusetts, & Maine. If you are looking for cost-effective solutions, then plaster or joint compound could be the best option. Joint compound and spackle have their various uses in the home, depending on the size of the project. They are both handy and high-quality in their own way, so it isnt merely a matter of choosing the best option. That means less dust and less mess than spackle would offer. Contractors call it mud or drywall mud.. This is used for the first and second coat of taping compound, Made for deeper holes and wide cracks, sets, and dries faster. However, on the surface, it can be hard to tell the difference between these two compounds. Joint compound is a combination of gypsum dust that is mixed adequately with water. AN ELITE CAFEMEDIA LIFESTYLE PUBLISHER.
This one-gallon bucket is enough for 18 square feet of drywall, plus a little extra for patching over nails. It is meant solely for the purpose of smaller patchwork jobs because of the rapidness in which it dries. On average, spackle can dry in 30 minutes. Make sure you choose the right one for the job that you have. When dealing with drywall or fixing larger issues in a home, it can be difficult to do on your own. Hence, it is quite obvious that it is one of the most commonly used materials for such jobs. The joint compound comes in 1 quart to 5-gallon sizes. Great for smaller applications, smaller repairs on the interior walls. Illinois Glove Company 21 Buffalo Grain Gloves. With constant exposure to air, it does not matter what you use; they will dry out just like the other products. When joint compound shrinks, it needs to have multiple applications to get the surface finished. The compound is used with drywall tape. However, when you sand a paste, you get airborne particles that can be inhaled. 2. It also helps to create a smooth and nice base that is perfectly suited for an indoor wall painting project and other such requirements. You never know when youll need either of these products.
As mentioned above, spackling is also used for various wall and building works, repairs and renewals and other such works. However, when in doubt, consider how much you need to use. Using the drying type gives the artist time to change textures. Both can be used on drywall- if less than inch. Each option works best in certain situations. Spackle- thinner spread, but not easy to spread, usually pre-made in a container and easier to slim down. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. That might sound simple but making batches that are too large is common and leads to a lot of wasted compound as a result.
Its a product trademarked by the New Jersey company, Muralo. Artists sometimes use joint compound to make a textured canvas. Reading the directions on the label is always important to be safe and to use the product effectively. It is meant to cover those small imperfections, drying quickly along the way.